New Method Extracts Gold From E-Waste Using Just Light and Salt, Eliminating Toxic Chemicals
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📰 The quick summary: Scientists at Flinders University developed a safer gold extraction technique using pool disinfectant compounds and recyclable polymers, eliminating the need for toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide when recovering gold from e-waste and ore.
📈 One key stat: Only 22.3% of the estimated 62 million tonnes of e-waste produced globally in 2022 was documented as formally collected and recycled, highlighting the urgent need for better metal recovery methods.
💬 One key quote: “We dived into a mound of e-waste and climbed out with a block of gold! I hope this research inspires impactful solutions to pressing global challenges,” says Dr. Patel from the research team.
1️⃣ The big picture: Australian researchers at Flinders University have created a breakthrough method to extract gold from ore and electronic waste without using toxic chemicals. Their approach uses trichloroisocyanuric acid (commonly found in pool disinfectants) activated by salt water to dissolve gold, which is then captured by a novel sulfur-rich polymer. This polymer can be recycled after the gold is recovered, making the entire process sustainable. The technique works effectively on various sources including circuit boards, mixed-metal waste, and ore concentrates, addressing both the growing e-waste crisis and the environmental damage caused by traditional gold mining practices.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: This innovation eliminates the need for highly toxic substances like mercury and cyanide that currently dominate gold extraction globally. The method provides a safer alternative for the 10-20 million artisanal miners in over 70 countries who are often exposed to dangerous mercury vapor. Recovering gold from e-waste helps address one of the fastest growing waste streams worldwide while reclaiming valuable metals. The recyclable nature of the polymer makes the process truly sustainable and circular, reducing environmental impact. By offering a practical solution for both mining operations and e-waste recyclers, this technology can transform gold recovery into a process that protects both human health and ecosystems.
3️⃣ What’s next: The team plans to work with mining and e-waste recycling operations to trial the method on a larger scale. Further collaborations with industry and environmental groups will help address complex problems that support both the economy and environment. The researchers seek to validate the method for small-scale mines that currently rely on toxic mercury, potentially transforming dangerous extraction practices worldwide.
Read the full story here: ScienceDaily – This breakthrough turns old tech into pure gold — No mercury, no cyanide, just light and salt
